§ 32. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Minister of Labour at what age Class Z and other reservists are free to accept liabilities for other forms of service in time of war.
§ Mr. RobensAt the age of 40, except for Regular reservists. It must, however, be understood that the Service Departments retain the right to recall in an emergency those Class Z and equivalent reservists over this age whom they might need. In addition, Class Z and equivalent reservists between 30 and 40 may, with certain exceptions, accept liabilities for service in the more strenuous branches of the Civil Defence services.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterHow then does the Z reservist over 40 years of age know whether he is free to enrol in Civil Defence, for example, or whether the Service Departments will require his services?
§ Mr. RobensWe have issued a document on that matter which is freely available. I think the hon. Member will find the information contained therein.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterHaving seen that document, might I ask the Minister whether it specifies the precise categories of people who will or will not be free to join Civil Defence at the age of 40?
§ Mr. RobensWhat it does define is the categories who are not eligible.
§ Mr. Harmar NichollsTo encourage recruitment for Civil Defence, would the Minister be prepared to undertake to guarantee that members of Civil Defence services over the age of 40 would not be called up in the first 12 months of any emergency?
§ Mr. RobensNo, I could not possibly do that.